Ollie van den Heuvel

Stage Management, Creative Writing

What made you choose Columbia?

I chose Columbia because I remember there being an international representative visiting my high school for our annual college fair and they really sold me on the programs the school offers and the amazing experiences. Once I took a tour I was definitely set on going because I love Chicago and the campus!

What do you plan on studying during your time here?

My plan at the moment is to double major in stage management and creative writing with a minor in directing, however, that might change during the time I spend there. 

What are your career goals at this time?

At the moment, I'm not sure. I know that I want to even travel more than I have so far, so maybe end up working in a travelling show such as Cirque du Soleil or maybe even work on Broadway or the West End! 

What do you most look forward to about learning and creating in Chicago?

Everything! I've been living abroad for about seven years now in various places (most recently the lovely little red dot, Singapore) and I can't wait to see what city life in Chicago is like to live in! 

How do you see your artistic practice engaging with contemporary events?

Currently I've been engaging in lots of different types of art. I love music and painting almost as much as theatre and writing, so I've been trying to spread a little bit of positivity as well as awareness through my and others' art.